Whole Genome Sequence Analysis of Burkholderia contaminans FFH2055 Strain Reveals the Presence of Putative β-Lactamases

Abstract

Burkholderia contaminans is a member of the Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc), a pathogen with increasing prevalence among cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and the cause of numerous outbreaks due to the use of contaminated commercial products. The antibiotic resistance determinants, particularly β-lactamases, have been poorly studied in this species. In this work, we explored the whole genome sequence (WGS) of a B. contaminans isolate (FFH 2055) and detected four putative β-lactamase-encoding genes. In general, these genes have more than 93% identity with β-lactamase genes found in other Bcc species. Two β-lactamases, a class A (Pen-like, suggested name PenO) and a class D (OXA-like), were further analyzed and characterized. Amino acid sequence comparison showed that Pen-like has 82% and 67% identity with B. multivorans PenA and B. pseudomallei PenI, respectively, while OXA-like displayed strong homology with class D enzymes within the Bcc, but only 22–44% identity with available structures from the OXA family. PCR reactions designed to study the presence of these two genes revealed a heterogeneous distribution among clinical and industrial B. contaminans isolates. Lastly, blaPenO gene was cloned and expressed into E. coli to investigate the antibiotic resistance profile and confers an extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) phenotype. These results provide insight into the presence of β-lactamases in B. contaminans, suggesting they play a role in antibiotic resistance of these bacteria.

Plant growth promoting endophyte Burkholderia contaminans NZ antagonizes phytopathogen Macrophomina phaseolina through melanin synthesis and pyrrolnitrin inhibition

“…However, the Burkholderia genus also comprises certain pathogenic species that threaten plant, animal, and human health [ 16 ]. Burkholderia contaminans is a member of the Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) [ 17 ] which includes several closely related Burkholderia species. These opportunistic pathogens frequently colonize the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) and immune-compromised patients [ 18 ].…”